Farm-Fresh: A Guide to Regional Farmers Markets

Niagara Falls USA is known for its spectacular landscape and natural wonders, but did you realize that includes plenty of lovely farms and vineyards as well? You can visit local wineries, but you can also snap up the local bounty by scheduling stops at the farmers’ markets that pop up throughout the week, especially in the warmer months of the year. Find out how to max out your farmer’s market visits along with where to go (and when).

Niagara Falls City Market

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, Year-Round: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Located centrally in Niagara Falls, this is a smaller operation featuring rotating local farmers year-round. Plenty of parking makes for an easy trip to the market, where you can purchase fresh fruit, veggies, plants and delectable baked goods.

Lewiston Artisan Farmers Market

Winter Market 2024 Dates: October 26, November 9 & 30, December 7 & 21 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Winter Market 2025 Dates: January 4 & 18, February 1 & 15, March 1, 15, & 29, April 5 & 19, May 10 & 24 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Expect freshly-brewed coffee and tea, artisanal seasonings, gourmet dog treats, and even locally distilled gin — as well as the usual suspects — at this Academy Park gathering. Yogis will want to check the Facebook page before hitting the market, as community yoga classes are frequently on the docket.

Lockport Community Market

Saturdays from May 18 to October 19, 2024: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Winter Market Dates: First and third Saturdays from November through May (excluding January) | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Founded in 2011, the Lockport Community Market adds artisans and musicians to their array of local producers, who bring produce, meats, dairy, baked goods and more. Plan to set aside a good chunk of time to spend here on a Saturday, and make sure to bring the kiddos.

Newfane Methodist Farmers Market

Wednesdays from July 3 to September 25, 2024: 4:30 – 7 p.m.

For a true taste of small-town summer, head to the weekly market in Newfane, a hamlet just north of Lockport on the shores of Lake Ontario. In addition to locally grown goods and crafts, expect live music, community bike rides, and a summertime menu with favorites like sausage with peppers and onions, and a local favorite, beef on weck.

North Tonawanda City Farmers Market

Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, Year-Round: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Generations of Niagara County families have been heading to this 100-year-old market to gather fresh fruit, vegetables and fresh florals. Come hungry — there are baked goods aplenty, as well as booths offering samples of delicacies like fresh basil pesto and garlicky bruschetta.

Pendleton Station Market

Sundays from June 23 to October 13, 2024: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

A former train station turned community market — featuring a mix of unique vendors and artisan wares. Browse and shop a variety organic soaps, soy wax candles, spices, sweet treats, and homemade goodies for your best fur-friend. And as an added bonus, the Craft Coffee House is conveniently located next door serving all of your favorite Sunday morning meals — coffee, waffles, and avocado toast.

The Market at Transit Drive-In Theatre

Sundays from May 26 to September 1, 2024: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

While the Transit Drive-In is always a summer staple in the evenings, enjoy a change of pace and explore their combination farmers, flea, and artisan market every Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day! After shopping, enjoy the drive-in's mini golf course and stop by their concession stand for classic movie theatre snacks.

Artisan & Farmers Market at Freedom Run Winery

Every other Sunday from June 2 to August 25, 2024: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Peruse everything from baked goods and home decor to knits and photography prints on Freedom Run Winery's gorgeous great lawn. Plus, RSVP to the market on their website to receive a future free wine tasting!

Now that you know where to go, get the most out of your farmer’s market outing with these five simple tips:

1. Come early. The best produce will often get snapped up first thing by local chefs and market regulars, and they can get more crowded as the day goes on.
2. Do a lap. Before you start purchasing, walk through the whole market. Multiple producers may have the same types of product and you want to suss out what’s the best option before you start purchasing.
3. Bring your own bags. Help out the local farmers by bringing your own bags so they don’t have to worry about supplying plastic bags for each item.
4. Grab small bills. Cash is absolutely necessary to have on hand, and small bills mean less likelihood of a vendor not being able to make change for you.
5. Know what’s in season. You’re most likely to be thrilled with your purchases if you buy produce at its peak, so know what to look for. It’ll also help you pick recipes in advance!